Pregnancy Massage

You may think of massage as a spa luxury to indulge in on occasion or preparation for that all important sporting event. One of the most beneficial times for massage may be during pregnancy.

Pregnancy massage is a catch-all term for any hands-on massage during or after pregnancy. Our therapists are specifically trained to ensure you and your baby’s comfort and safety are our first priority. The therapist will use bolsters and towels to position you comfortably onto your side. Especially during the later stages of pregnancy lying on your side is often the most comfortable position for pregnancy massage.

Massage therapy during pregnancy can have many positive effects. It promotes the physiological response of relaxation, reducing anxiety levels due to reduced levels of the stress hormone noradrenaline. It also stimulates positive hormones such as serotonin.

Examples of common types of massage include:

Deep-tissue massage, with firm strokes pressing deep into muscles.

Swedish massage, with long strokes to muscles and attention to joint mobility.

During the massage our therapists will adapt their techniques to address the changes a woman’s body goes through during pregnancy. For instance, blood volume increases dramatically as much as 50% during pregnancy. Levels of anticoagulants that thicken the blood naturally rise this can result in blood flow to the legs becoming sluggish leading to swelling. Massage can help the management of swollen legs during pregnancy using very light, slow strokes on the legs.

Very light pressure on the abdomen is advised, if the belly is massaged at all, your therapist will work with you to establish what your needs are and plan your individual treatment program to best suit your requirements.